What can I do to become a proficient network administrator?

I have an associates in computers and an A+ verification so you could say I'm slightly knowledgeable. Im 20 and I have worked for a high school doing computer repair and troubleshooting and a little bit of networking. I currently work for a school district doing the same thing. What can I do to learn how to run a network like the net admins I know. I have adhd so reading is hard but I would love to hear good networking book suggestions along with any answer thank you.What can I do to become a proficient network administrator?
I was exactly in your shoes about 6 years ago. I tried studying books, but I have a hard time reading large books of boooring information about networks. The best way I learned was actually experience through work, both main and side jobs. I've learned so much through my work with school systems, and also by setting up networks and troubleshooting problems for friends and neighbors.





Once I learned enough to step up into a higher position, I applied for a job at a company where I could do desktop support, but also learn their big networks and systems while I wasn't swamped.





It was hard at first, but I learned the most just by watching and talking with others. After a while, you'd be surprised how many people start asking you for help.What can I do to become a proficient network administrator?
The only way is by experience.





You can learn all the fundamentals in classes and books, but they only provide best conditions setups and scenarios. The only way you will be proficient is by working on the job day by day experiencing all the problems and troubles that comes up when things break down, when users mess things up, when executives ask you for unrealistic expectations, and you are called at 3am if fix problems and have to work under pressure half-asleep.